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Sulfur poisoning of nickel methanation catalysts, part 1: in situ deactivation by H/sub 2/S of nickel and nickel bimetallics

Journal Article · · J. Catal.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5205172

Brigham Young University has investigated the effects of exposure to dilute H/sub 2/S during reaction upon the methanation activity of alumina-supported nickel, cobalt, and nickel-bimetallic catalysts in powder, pellet, and monolith form. Results of activity tests at 486/sup 0/F (525 K), 1 atm, and a space velocity of 30,000/hr with 10 ppm H/sub 2/S in the reactant stream show that cobalt and most nickel-bimetallic catalysts are not significantly more nor less sulfur-tolerant than nickel; Ni-MoO/sub 3/, however, is more active before, during, and after exposure to H/sub 2/S. The data also indicate that monolithic catalysts are significantly more sulfur-resistant than either powder or pellet catalysts. All of these catalysts, however, are completely deactivated within a period of 2-3 days under the conditions investigated. During reaction in the presence of H/sub 2/S, methanation activity decreases exponentially, accompanied by a gradual breakthrough of the poison. Less sulfur is adsorbed on the catalyst during reaction than would be if equilibrium adsorption occurred. Data show the roles of temperature, gas composition, and catalyst geometry in the poisoning process. Treatment with CO/O/sub 2/ and O/sub 2/, followed by a mild re-reduction, can partially regenerate the poisoned catalysts.

OSTI ID:
5205172
Journal Information:
J. Catal.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Catal.; (United States) Vol. 60:2; ISSN JCTLA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English